Depending on your climate and activities, you’ll need to consider insulation, weight, and style. Fortunately, there are plenty of jacket styles that are extremely versatile.
For a rugged look, opt for a waxed jacket. They’re typically crafted from durable cotton canvas slathered with wax or oil to repel moisture.
Insulation
The type of insulation determines the most versatile jacket warmth, compressibility, and how it handles wet conditions. Also important is how it fits — for example, jackets from REI Co-op, Patagonia, and Mountain Hardwear tend to run baggier than Arc’teryx, Feathered Friends, or other high-end brands. Other factors that affect warmth include the fill power of down and box or stitch-through construction.
A growing trend in jacket design is to vary the type of insulation based on where it sits on the body. For example, stretch side panels, less bulky insulation in the arms, and waterproof upper surfaces are all options. These adaptations offer better performance for a specific activity and help fend off windchill.
Technical softshells provide superior protection against cold, wind, and snow for activities like backcountry skiing, ice/mixed climbing, and winter mountaineering. They are typically insulated and feature taped seams similar to a hardshell. Many are water-resistant and designed to be worn over a shell, but they may not be as breathable as active softshells.
Synthetic insulation is lightweight, compressible, and dries quickly. It has a wet weather advantage over down, and some manufacturers use a polymer treatment on their synthetics to improve how they handle moisture. However, it’s not as warm as down and doesn’t pack as small. A few brands use hybrid fills that mix down and synthetic insulation to create a lightweight, warm jacket with good wet weather performance.
Weight
Down jackets offer the highest warmth-to-weight ratio of any insulated coat. High-fill down consists of lofty filament clusters that trap body heat incredibly well. They also pack down to an extremely small size and are easy to stash in your backpack or glove box for emergency use. Additional features like adjustable hoods, chin guards, chest and hip pockets, and adjusted fits enhance their versatility.
While insulation is usually the main focus of cold weather jackets, weight, and waterproof ratings are also important considerations. If you’re going to be outdoors in wet conditions, consider a waterproof rating of 15k or higher. A higher waterproof rating will protect you from heavier downpours and snow.
For a versatile and lightweight jacket, choose a down fill power of 600 or more, and check the total fill weight (or ounces). This will give you an idea of how much insulation is packed into the jacket. Premium models will have a fill power of 800 or more, which means they have more lofty filament clusters to trap your body heat.
The shell fabric determines a jacket’s breathability, mobility, durability and ability to fend off windchill. Consider a ripstop nylon or polyester for durability and stretch, while lightweight, soft-shell fabrics woven with spandex provide flexibility and comfort. For extra durability, look for jackets with abrasion-resistant fabrics and DWR coatings.
Style
Jackets are a stylish clothing staple that elevates any outfit and leaves a lasting impression wherever you go. But, with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which jacket is right for you. Luckily, we have some tips that will help you find the perfect jacket to suit your lifestyle and style!
When choosing a jacket, it is important to consider the fabric. Jackets made with high-quality fabrics, such as wool or leather, exude elegance and sophistication while also providing warmth and comfort. On the other hand, jackets made with lightweight materials, such as denim or cotton-based fabric, are ideal for casual and everyday activities.
Additionally, it is important to choose a jacket that fits well. Different brands have different fit styles, and it is important to find one that flatters your silhouette. For example, jackets from REI Co-op, Patagonia, and Mountain Hardwear tend to run boxier, while jackets from Arc’teryx and Feathered Friends have more of a slim or athletic fit.
Another factor to consider when choosing a jacket is the color. Neutral colors like gray, black, and white are timeless and will never go out of style. On the other hand, a brightly-colored jacket can add a fun pop of color to your look.
Comfort
Besides practical considerations, a puffer jacket for women is also an opportunity for self-expression. Jackets come in a wide variety of colors, fabrics, and styles to suit anyone’s personal style. For example, a tailored blazer and a leather biker jacket offer different options for sophisticated sophistication, while a parka with a helmet-compatible hood and adjustable hem cinch can enhance a hiking outfit.
Insulation type is another factor that impacts comfort. Softshells are more flexible and less stiff than hardshells. They’re also much softer and more pleasant to the touch, which makes them more comfortable for cold-weather aerobic activities like running or climbing. Additionally, some are fleece-lined for extra warmth and softness.
A jacket’s shell material determines how waterproof and breathable it is. For the best weather protection, look for a durable fabric with a Gore-Tex or other water-resistant membrane. Waterproof coatings repel rain and snow without compromising the jacket’s breathability or mobility.
Finally, consider a jacket’s fit and features to make sure it’s right for you. A jacket should be form-fitting but not too tight, so your body heat can circulate. The right fit also helps you layer efficiently, keeping you warm and dry. It’s smart to buy a jacket a size bigger than you currently wear, especially if you plan to add layers. This will give you a little room for growth and allow you to comfortably fit sweaters and bulkier clothing underneath.